historical fiction

American

noun

the genre of literature, film, etc., comprising narratives that take place in the past and are characterized chiefly by an imaginative reconstruction of historical events and personages.
works of this genre, as novels and plays.

Etymology

Origin of historical fiction

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Both were popular novelists of rip-roaring historical fiction, both were politically active Tories, and both had the Borderlands at the heart of their works and lives.

From BBC • Feb. 3, 2026

However, what elevates “Sinners” beyond the gore — what makes it a delicious piece of historical fiction — are the details woven into the story’s fabric.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 24, 2026

“Titanic” was not merely a romance; it was also historical fiction, a drama and a big-budget action.

From Salon • Jan. 23, 2026

The German novelist most recently authored “Tyll,” shortlisted for the 2020 International Booker Prize, and his translator, Ross Benjamin, has rendered his new historical fiction in idiomatic English prose.

From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2025

There were racks loaded with mysteries, Newbery winners, historical fiction, biographies, and short stories.

From "The Landry News" by Andrew Clements

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023